New research on running barefoot: is it a good or bad idea? The results of the latest study in the debate of running with or without shoes have been released, providing much discussion to those in the sport science world. The main findings from the study show that running barefoot allows one to shift landing to the forefoot rather than heel strike. But this isn’t breaking news, since we’ve known this concept for some time. However, the other finding is a bit more interesting.... It states that the loading rate and the peak impact force are reduced when running barefoot (and landing on the forefoot). And as we know, higher impact forces and loading rate tend to equal a higher injury risk.

Great news! So let’s all throw away our running shoes and start running the ‘natural way’. I’m sure there will be many reports in the media about the new scientific study proving that running barefoot is better for you. However, it’s not that simple! Any drastic change in how you run, whether it is in technique or changing shoes, will put strain on your muscles, joints and ligaments beyond their practiced capabilities.

The study does not show the long-term, or even the short-term, effects of running barefoot. The moral of the story? Going from years of running in shoes to running barefoot will result in injury. Therefore, in my opinion: “If it aint broke, don’t fix it!”